June 5th - Weekly Update

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Shaping the Future of Transportation


Supervisor Andersen joined transportation leaders, community advocates, business representatives, and elected officials at the 2026 Move Bay Area East Bay Summit to discuss the future of transportation throughout the Bay Area.


The summit focused on identifying innovative funding strategies, advancing transit improvements, and exploring ways to create a more connected and accessible regional transportation system. Attendees participated in engaging discussions, shared lessons learned from successful projects, and collaborated on ideas to address current transportation challenges.


Supervisor Andersen highlighted several Contra Costa County initiatives, including efforts to improve the Iron Horse Trail, expand bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, enhance transit connections, and support programs that encourage more sustainable transportation options for residents of all ages.


The event brought together transit riders, planners, transportation professionals, community organizations, students, and local leaders who share a commitment to improving mobility throughout the East Bay. Through collaboration and innovative thinking, participants helped shape a vision for a transportation network that is safer, more efficient, and better connected for future generations.

Supervisor Andersen was pleased to join fellow transportation and community leaders, including Haleema Bharoocha-Jobe of CCTA, Seamus Murphy of SF Bay Ferry, Stephen Baiter of East Bay EDA, and disability advocate Ryan Manriquez, for a thoughtful discussion on regional mobility and accessibility.

Move Bay Area brings transportation, climate, and health leaders with community in-person to discover commonality and regional solutions to our transportation challenges with the goal of shaping a regional transportation vision together.


To learn more about their initiatives please email the team at hello@movebayarea.org.


Click MTC to learn more about their mission,

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Has a New Chief!


Monday, the Board of Supervisors and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire) celebrated the swearing-in of Aaron McAlister as the new Fire Chief of ConFire.


Chief McAlister brings more than two decades of fire service experience and a deep commitment to public safety, emergency preparedness, and community service. During the ceremony, family members, colleagues, elected officials, and community partners gathered to recognize his leadership and dedication to protecting Contra Costa County residents.


Chief McAlister will lead one of the Bay Area’s largest fire agencies, overseeing fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, wildfire preparedness, and community risk reduction programs.


We welcome Chief McAlister to his new role and celebrate the strong partnerships that help keep Contra Costa County communities safe.

Board of Supervisors Chair, Diane Burgis swears in Chief McAlister

Are you in a Firewise Neighborhood?


The NFPA National Firewise USA® recognition program provides a collaborative framework to help neighbors in a geographic area get organized, find direction, and take action to increase the fire resistance of their homes and community and to reduce wildfire risks at the local level. Any community that meets a set of voluntary criteria on an annual basis and retains an "In Good Standing Status" may identify itself as being a Firewise site.


To learn more, visit your local FireWise website:


Moraga Orinda Firewise Network

ConFire Firewise


If you do not live in a community with a Firewise Network already established, you can visit the National Fire Protection Assocation website to learn how to establish one today!

The Personal Emergency Preparedness (PEP) Class is a free educational program designed to help individuals and families prepare for disasters and emergencies. Participants will learn how to become self-sufficient for up to seven days following a major emergency by developing a home emergency plan, assembling emergency supplies, and learning basic emergency response skills.


Topics Covered:

What to do before, during, and after a major emergency

Hazard mitigation and utility control

Personal and family emergency supplies

Staying calm during a crisis


Classes will be 6-9 PM on the following dates:

Wednesday, January 28 (Ages 16+)

Tuesday, February 24 (Ages 16+)

Monday, March 23 (Family PEP – All Ages Welcome)


Upon completion, participants will have the knowledge and resources needed to create a home emergency plan, build an emergency kit, and respond effectively to emergencies in and around their home.

To learn more or register, click Personal Emergency Preparedness (PEP)

Funding Opportunity: Domestic Violence Liaison Services


Contra Costa County's Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) is seeking qualified organizations to provide Domestic Violence Liaison Services for children and families involved in the child welfare system.


Through RFP #12137, the selected provider will work closely with Children & Family Services staff to offer case consultation, guidance, safety planning, and support for families impacted by domestic violence.


Proposal Deadline: Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (PST)


Organizations interested in applying must register with BidNet Direct to access solicitation documents and submit proposals. For additional information, visit EHSD's Contracting Opportunities page.


This opportunity supports Contra Costa County's ongoing commitment to promoting safety, stability, and well-being for vulnerable children and families.


To learn more about EHSD and their contracting opportunities visit EHSD.org.

Take a Virtual Tour of the Veterans Service Office


Looking to learn more about the services available to veterans and their families? The Contra Costa County Veterans Service Office has released a new video providing a behind-the-scenes tour of its office along with an overview of the many benefits and resources available to those who have served our country.


The video highlights assistance with VA benefits, disability compensation claims, health care enrollment, education benefits, survivor benefits, and other valuable support services. It also introduces viewers to the dedicated staff who help veterans navigate the often-complex benefits process.


Whether you are a veteran, family member, caregiver, or simply interested in learning more, this informative video offers a great introduction to the services available right here in Contra Costa County.


Contra Costa Veterans Service Office - YouTube Video.

The Silent 10% - The Untold Crisis of the Justice Systems'

Fastest Growing Population - Women


Community members are invited to attend The Silent 10%: The Untold Crisis of the Justice System’s Fastest Growing Population - Women on Thursday, June 25th, from 6-8 PM in the Diablo Room at Diablo Valley College.


The event will feature a screening of the film Breaking Barriers, followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with the filmmaker and justice-involved women. Participants will also hear recommendations for addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by women impacted by the justice system.


Co-hosted by The Gemma Project and Diablo Valley College’s Scholars for Justice Program, the event aims to raise awareness, foster meaningful dialogue, and explore solutions that support successful reentry, education, and opportunity for justice-involved women.

Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is encouraged.

Please visit HERE for map of DVC event location.


Co-hosted by:

Visit The Gemma Project to learn more!

When Making Plans This Summer - Look to Your Library!


Friday, June 5th - Dino Dig in Moraga

Monday, June 8th - Magician Perry Yan in San Ramon

Tuesday June 9th - Mini Makers in Orinda

Thursday June 11th - 3D Printing Workshop in Lafayette

Saturday, June 13th - STEAM at Dougherty Station

Wednesday, June 17th - Kidchella in Danville


This list is a sample of what is available, there is so much more going on at each library branch. Visit the Library Events Page to see all events.

Free 24/7 Online Tutoring Available Through the Library


Getting homework help just got easier. Contra Costa County Library has expanded access to Brainfuse HelpNow, its live online tutoring service, to provide support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


Available free with a valid library card, Brainfuse HelpNow connects students, adult learners, and job seekers with real tutors and offers homework assistance, writing feedback, study resources, and other learning tools whenever they are needed.


Whether balancing school activities, working full-time, or simply prefer to study outside traditional hours, HelpNow provides flexible, on-demand learning support right from home.

To find a Brainfuse HelpNow on the Library's Digital Resources page

visit ccclib.org.

Supporting Child Care Providers Through Wage Boosts


A pilot program funded through Measure X and the Employment and Human Services Department's Workforce Development Board, and administered by CocoKids, is helping strengthen the local child care workforce. Since launching in early 2025, participating early educators have received monthly wage enhancements of approximately $1,000, providing meaningful support in a field critical to children and families.


As the first cohort nears completion, planning is already underway for Cohort 2. The next group will continue focusing on educators serving children in child care deserts, helping improve staff retention, reduce turnover, and ensure families have access to stable, high-quality early care and education.

For questions please contact Autumn Brooks, Workforce Development Coordinator, at Autumn.brooks@cocokids.org or

via phone at Direct: 925.956.4774 Cell: 925.542.6415

Become Water Wise This Spring


Making a difference starts with simple steps. From replacing a portion of your lawn and improving soil health to choosing drought-tolerant plants, small changes can help create a more water-efficient and resilient landscape.


Residents are encouraged to participate in the 2026 Water Wise Challenge, part of the Cleaner Contra Costa program. Together, participants have already helped save more than 4.38 million gallons of water through everyday conservation actions.


Complete at least three Water Wise actions and share your progress on the Cleaner Contra Costa platform by June 30th for a chance to win a $50 gift card of your choice.


Join the 2026 Water-wise Challenge Today!


Take the challenge today and start with one simple water-saving action

this month!


Visit water-wise challenge for more information.


Visit Sustainable CoCo County to learn more.

Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife 

Committee Accepting Grant Applications


The Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee is accepting grant applications until 5 PM on July 27th from nonprofits, schools, and government agencies seeking to enhance local fish and wildlife resources.


The Committee encourages projects focused on habitat improvement, public education, scientific research, protection of threatened and endangered species, and addressing human-wildlife interactions. Special consideration will be given to projects that promote community outreach, multilingual education, and collaboration with law enforcement and community organizations regarding fish and game regulations.


Grant funding comes from fines collected for violations of California fish and game laws. The Committee will review applications and make recommendations to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, which has final approval authority.


To read full Press Release and to apply visit HERE.

Youth Ride Free is Back - No Application. No ID. No Passes. Get on and go!


Level up this summer with Youth Ride Free! Getting around Contra Costa County just got a whole lot easier (again). County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, and WestCAT are bringing back Youth Ride Free for summer 2026, giving youth 18 and under the freedom to ride any County Connection bus fare-free from June 1st through July 31st.


Coming soon: Youth Ride Free Leaderboard

Participants (13-18) are asked to log their trips on County Connection. When passengers participate, their trip count and miles traveled will post on the main leaderboard. Logging rides leads to prizes. More on that soon!


Simple, Easy, and Made for You(th)

Youth Ride Free is designed to be as easy as possible. Whether you are heading to a job, meeting up with friends, or exploring your community, hopping on the bus is all it takes. No paperwork, no lines, no hassle, just ride. 


Why Youth Ride Free?

This program is about more than free fares—it’s about opening doors and creating opportunities for young people across our community.

  • Enhance Mobility – Give youth the freedom to travel independently and confidently.
  • Access Opportunities – Connect to jobs, libraries, parks, shopping centers, and more.
  • Build Connections – Encourage social interaction while helping youth develop transit skills and confidence.
  • Improve Service – Better understand how young riders travel to help shape the future of transit in Contra Costa County.


Remove Barriers, Roll Out the Welcome Mat 

By eliminating fares, applications, and ID requirements, Youth Ride Free creates a truly open invitation for young riders. No fees. No forms. No catch.

Just freedom to move.


Get on and go - we will see you on board this summer!

Visit YouthRideFree.com to learn more.


Questions or feedback about Youth Ride Free? You may also reach out to Marketing@cccta.org to let us know what’s on your mind!

Summer Concert Series in District 2

Lamorinda CERT In-Person Multi Casualty Incident Exercise


Lamorinda CERT will be hosting an in-person training exercise in downtown Lafayette on Saturday, June 6th from 9 AM - 12 PM.


The goal of the exercise is to review the skills that CERT graduates learned during basic training. Participants will be conducting search and rescue, building markings, triage, transport, medical treatment, radio communications and more in coordination with other agencies.


For more information on the exercise, or to sign up for CERT classes,

visit Lamorinda CERT.

To learn more about upcoming pop-up shops visit www.sos.ca.gov.

Support Seniors and Foster Children with

Panda Express Thursday, June 11th


Support Community, Connection, and Belonging. Join Choice in Aging and Fostering Wishes in helping build a stronger community by reducing isolation, supporting vulnerable residents, and creating meaningful connections that help people feel valued and included.

Panda Express will donate 28% of eligible online sales to support these important efforts.


How to Participate:

  • Order online through Panda Express
  • Enter the fundraiser event code at checkout
  • Third-party delivery app orders and gift card purchases are not eligible


Together, we can help ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of age or circumstance.

Click Choice in Aging to learn more about their programs and services.


Click Fostering Wishes to find more ways to support their program.

Elder Abuse Awareness Fair 


The Contra Costa Elder Abuse Prevention Project is sponsoring a FREE Resource Fair on June 9th. The Elder Abuse Awareness Fair marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, featuring resources, prevention tips, and support services for seniors.

 

Topics will include how to stay safe from elder abuse and you will have the opportunity to speak with community based organizations who can answer your questions. Take home free guides and information. Open to all adults - just stop by! 


Tuesday, June 9th

Anytime between 10 AM - 1 PM

Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle 


Click here to learn more about Contra Costa Elder Abuse Prevention Project

There are many exciting opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate throughout District 2!


June 13th

Choice in Aging AI for Caregrivers Webinar


Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Open House


Kiwanis Moraga Valley Youth Music Expo


June 25th

John Muir Health Webinar - Quality Care Close to Home


Mark your calendars and join in these wonderful community gatherings happening across our district!


Stay Connected with Your Community - Be sure to check your local community, town, or city calendar regularly for upcoming events. It’s a great way to stay informed, get involved, and support the activities that

bring neighbors together.

District 2 Volunteer Opportunity

 

Behavioral Health Board

One District 2 Family Member Seat Available

Proposition 1, passed in April 2024, included legislation mandating transformation of the public behavioral health system. Provisions of SB 326 included implementation of an integrated Behavioral Health Board. This integrated advisory body is to include designated members of the community prepared to address community mental health and substance use treatment services.


The mandated functions of the Behavioral Health Board include to:

  • Review and evaluate the local public mental health system, the local public substance use disorder treatment system, the community’s public behavioral health needs, services, facilities, and special problems where services are being provided
  • Advise the Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health Director on community mental health and substance use disorder services.
  • Review county agreements, adopted Behavioral Health Services Act plan and make recommendations to the local behavioral health agency.
  • Ensure citizen and professional involvement at all stages
  • Submit an annual report.
  • Review and recommend appointment of the local director of behavioral health services.
  • Review and comment on county’s performance outcome date
  • Assess the impact of the realignment of services.
  • Conduct a public hearing on the draft three-year program and expenditure plan and annual updates at the close of the 30-day comment period required by subdivision.
  • Provide an annual report of written explanations to the local governing body and Department of Health Care Service.

 

Submit an Application.


Click here for information on volunteering for an advisory board.

County Wide Volunteer Opportunity


Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council

The Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC) is a multi-agency advisory body that contributes to the development and implementation of a countywide juvenile justice plan. It is composed of several critical parts: an assessment of existing law enforcement, probation, education, mental health, health, social services, drugs, alcohol, and youth resources, which specifically target both at-promise, as well as system involved youth, and their families.


The JJCC will also coordinate the work of governmental and non-governmental organizations engaged in activities designed to reduce the incidence of juvenile crime and delinquency in the greater community. Further, the JJCC will develop information and intelligence sharing systems to ensure county actions are fully coordinated and equipped to provide data and appropriate outcome measures.


There is one At Large Seat and one Youth Representative Seat available. Applicants must either live or work in Contra Costa County. Applications are due by 5PM on Monday, July 6th, Interviews will be either in person, or via zoom, at the July 20th Public Protection Committee.


Click here to submit an Application.